Germany crash out at group stage despite Costa Rica victory

Germany crashed out of the Fifa World Cup on a remarkable night of drama despite victory over Costa Rica at Al Bayt Stadium. Japan’s controversial 2-1 victory against Spain would have eliminated Germany anyway, but Hansi Flick’s side needed three points to give themselves any chance of reaching the last 16.

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Late Japanese comeback sees Germany fall to shock defeat

A stunning late comeback from Japan saw four-time winners Germany fall to a shock defeat in their opening World Cup game in Qatar. Germany dominated a frenetic match for large spells but failed to capitalise on their pressure – before Japan caused the Khalifa International Stadium to erupt into a mix of celebration and surprise.

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Havertz stunner sees Chelsea into last 16 with win over Salzburg

Chelsea reached the Champions League knockout stages with a game to spare after Kai Havertz’s stunning second-half strike helped to see off Red Bull Salzburg. The Blues now cannot be caught by either the Austrian champions or AC Milan, meaning they have the luxury of being able to rest players in the final group game at home to Dinamo Zagreb.

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Benzema hat-trick gives Real Madrid upper hand on Chelsea

Chelsea must overturn a two-goal deficit at Real Madrid to salvage their Champions League defence after Karim Benzema’s hat-trick secured a 3-1 quarter-final first-leg victory over the error-strewn holders at Stamford Bridge. Benzema dispatched two exquisite headers in three first-half minutes at a rain-drenched Stamford Bridge as Madrid set about avenging last season’s semi-final defeat

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